Roger E. Bender

On Monday, January 25, 2016, Roger E. Bender, 75 of La Crosse, passed away in his home. He courageously fought cancer for the past four years.
Roger was born in Menno, South Dakota on April 12, 1940, to Elmer and Lillian (Peterka) Bender-Bemis. Roger was married to Judith (Brieske) Boehm, together they had four sons and he later married Evaline “Evie” Blegen.
Roger was a well-respected Boat Mechanic in the Lacrosse area, working in the field for over 44 years. He was always willing to help a friend when the need arose. He had a deep passion for the outdoors and the Green Bay Packers and loved sharing this with his family and friends.
He is survived by his four sons, Brian of La Crosse, Brad (Theresa) of Galesville, Bruce (Debbie) of Celina, Tex., and Barry (Tammy) of Ventura, Cal.; eight grandchildren, Brett Bender of Saratoga Springs, N.Y., Brandon Bender of League City, Tex., Blake and Kailee Bender of Ventura, Cal., Brendt and Brendon Bender of Galesville, Rosie and Callie Bender of Celina, Tex.; one great grandson, Brantley Bender of League City; and many friends. He was preceded in death by his father, mother, and his wife, Evie.
A celebration of Roger’s life will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., on Friday, February 12, 2016 at Schumacher-Kish Funeral and Cremation Services, 200 West Ave. So., La Crosse.